Post by : Meena Ariff

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a new task force that he will personally lead to prepare for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, California. The announcement came with bold promises of safety, federal support, and some political drama.

The move is seen by many as an effort by Trump to take greater control over a high-profile global event, happening in a city that doesn’t always agree with him politically. Despite the political tension, the Olympics are expected to bring millions of eyes to the U.S., and Trump has made it clear that he wants to ensure the Games go smoothly—on his terms.

Trump Forms and Leads Olympic Task Force

Trump officially signed an order to set up the new Olympic task force at the White House on Tuesday. He will serve as chairman of the group, and Vice President JD Vance will act as vice-chair. Several other top government officials are also expected to be part of the task force.

The purpose of the team is to coordinate efforts with federal agencies and ensure that the Olympics are safe, organized, and successful. Trump said during the signing ceremony, “We’ll do anything necessary to keep the Olympics safe”—even mentioning the possible use of the National Guard or military if needed.

Previous Clashes With California

Trump’s comments raised eyebrows, especially after his past conflicts with California state leaders. In June, he made headlines when he deployed the California National Guard against the wishes of Governor Gavin Newsom. That move came during large protests against federal immigration raids in Los Angeles—a city with a large migrant population.

The governor and city officials strongly criticized Trump’s actions at the time, calling them unnecessary and political. Now, with the Olympics approaching, some worry that federal involvement could bring more tension between state and federal leaders.

Meeting With LA Olympics Committee

Despite the political backdrop, the head of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Organizing Committee, Casey Wasserman, joined Trump at the White House for the announcement.

Wasserman thanked Trump and said he had been supportive of the Games “every step of the way.” He even gifted Trump with replicas of the gold, silver, and bronze medals used during the last LA Olympics in 1984.

Wasserman then offered Trump a special opportunity: to carry the Olympic torch during the U.S. leg of the torch relay, which for the first time will travel to all 50 U.S. states.

“You’re more than welcome to run again on Park Avenue, just like you did back in 2004,” Wasserman said, referring to when Trump briefly held the Olympic flame before the Athens Games.

Olympics & World Cup in Trump's Term

The 2028 Olympics will be one of the biggest events during Trump’s second term in office, along with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will also be hosted partly in the U.S. These two events are expected to bring huge international attention and millions of visitors to American cities.

By leading the Olympic task force, Trump places himself directly in the spotlight and may try to use the event to boost national pride and showcase U.S. leadership on the global stage.

Trump on Transgender Athletes

During the same press briefing, Trump addressed one of the most controversial topics in sports today—transgender athletes competing in women’s events.

He stated clearly, “The United States will not let men steal trophies from women at the 2028 Olympics.” Trump has long taken a strong stance against transgender athletes, especially those born male who wish to compete in women’s categories.

When asked whether athletes would undergo genetic testing, he responded, “There will be a very, very strong form of testing. And if the test doesn’t come out appropriately, they won’t be in the Olympics.”

This statement is expected to create international debate, especially as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has rules in place that already address these issues.

Ongoing Feud With LA Leaders

Trump also used the moment to take another swipe at Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, a Democrat. “She’s not very competent,” he said, accusing her of poor leadership, especially during wildfires that hit Los Angeles earlier this year.

The ongoing tension between Trump and LA city officials may complicate cooperation over Olympic planning. City leaders may push back against decisions made by the task force, especially if they feel local needs are being ignored.

A Chance for Unity or Division?

Despite the tensions, the Olympics are usually seen as a chance for unity—both nationally and globally. It remains to be seen whether Trump will use this opportunity to bring people together or continue his combative style of politics.

Political experts say Trump’s high involvement in the Games could bring benefits, such as more federal funding and security planning, but could also risk further conflict with state leaders if they feel he is overstepping.

What Comes Next?

The newly formed task force will now begin work on planning everything from safety, transportation, and accommodation, to health services and international coordination.

With over three years to go, officials on all sides will need to cooperate closely to ensure the Games are safe, fair, and welcoming to athletes and visitors from around the world.

Whether Trump’s bold leadership style helps or hinders this process remains to be seen. What’s certain is that the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics will not just be a sports event—it will also be a major political moment.